Father Patrick O’Byrne – Hastings St. Cecilia/Wahoo Neumann

Coach. Father Pat’s track and field expertise and enthusiasm brought outstanding success in the sport to Hastings St. Cecilia (1968-77), where his girls teams won five state and district championships, and Wahoo Neumann (1978-98) where his teams won three state championships in girls cross country, two state titles in boys cross country and two state championships in girls track. A native of Ireland, he once was the Irish national champion in the 440 and since coming to Nebraska, has served as a Catholic priest in Hastings, Colon/Cedar Bluffs and Plattsmouth. His track interests brought national acclaim, as he was USA team manager for several international meets, including the World Championships, Friendship Games in Moscow and the Russia/United States duals. He’s spent a lifetime serving youth track and field in the state and nationally. Ordained in Dublin, Ireland. Degree: Kearney State.